Few desserts instantly say Christmas the way snowball cookies do — and when they’re made with rich red velvet flavor, they become irresistible. These Red Velvet Snowballs are soft, buttery, and coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar that looks like freshly fallen snow. When guests bite into one, the surprise of the deep red interior makes them even more magical.

Perfect for Christmas dessert parties, cookie exchanges, holiday gift boxes, or cozy nights by the fire, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. They’re easy to make, store well, and disappear quickly from any dessert table

What Makes These Snowballs Special

Red velvet snowballs combine the classic melt-in-your-mouth texture of traditional snowball cookies with a subtle cocoa flavor and festive red color. Unlike regular cookies, these have a tender crumb that almost dissolves as you eat them, making them perfect for pairing with hot cocoa, coffee, or mulled wine during the holidays.

Ingredients

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp red food coloring
1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls.
Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft.
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then roll them generously in powdered sugar.
Cool completely before serving or storing.

Texture, Flavor & Appearance

These Red Velvet Snowballs are soft and tender with a buttery crumb. The cocoa adds depth without overpowering the classic red velvet flavor, while the powdered sugar coating adds sweetness and a festive snow-like appearance. When arranged on a platter, they instantly elevate your Christmas dessert spread.

Perfect Occasions to Serve These Cookies

Christmas dessert parties
Holiday cookie exchanges
Edible gifts and treat boxes
Family movie nights during the holidays
Office holiday gatherings

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days
Refrigerate for up to 7 days
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months (roll in powdered sugar after thawing)